The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has reinforced its commitment to the economic empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with the implementation of a business support initiative titled “Refinancing of Businesses Owned by PWDs.” The programme was held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Agency’s premises in Lagos.
Speaking on behalf of the General Manager, the Deputy Director of Finance and Accounts, Dr. Kasunmu Taofikat Olatunbosun, welcomed the beneficiaries and expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to represent the Agency’s leadership at the event.
Dr. Kasunmu urged beneficiaries to make prudent and effective use of the financial support, noting that the Lagos State Government, through LASODA, remains committed to empowering Persons with Disabilities to establish, grow, and sustain viable businesses.
She explained that the initiative aligns with LASODA’s mandate to support PWDs in harnessing their God-given potentials and achieving economic independence.
According to her, the Agency is focused on ensuring that PWDs enjoy more productive, comfortable, and fulfilling lives through entrepreneurship.
Addressing Inclusive News Network (INN), Dr. Kasunmu disclosed that the programme specifically targets Persons with Disabilities who are already engaged in business activities. She added that all beneficiaries were thoroughly screened and carefully selected to ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful impact.
“This intervention is aimed at rebuilding and strengthening existing businesses. The support provided today will significantly enhance business growth and promote long-term sustainability,” she said.
She further revealed that eighty Persons with Disabilities are benefiting from the refinancing scheme and expressed appreciation to the Governor of Lagos State for his continued support for disability-focused empowerment programmes. She assured that fairness, equity, and inclusion would continue to guide LASODA’s efforts to help beneficiaries expand their businesses and achieve greater success.
Beneficiaries of the programme also commended the initiative. Mrs. Ughonu Ify Matilda, a member of the Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disability of Nigeria (AIDDN), representing a child with intellectual disability, described the intervention as timely and impactful. She highlighted the challenges involved in caring for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and called for sustained government support through LASODA.
Also speaking, Mr. Emmanuel Jeremiah, a member of the physical disability cluster and a cobbler and bag maker, expressed gratitude to LASODA for the opportunity. He noted that such programmes are critical to strengthening small businesses owned by PWDs, adding that many empowerment initiatives often exclude Persons with Disabilities. He therefore called for the continuous inclusion of PWDs in all government empowerment programmes.
LASODA reaffirmed its dedication to advancing inclusion, economic empowerment, and equal opportunities for Persons with Disabilities across Lagos State.
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